Graveyards hold a somber and eerie atmosphere, but a new coffee table book seeks to unveil the unexpected beauty they possess. “Cities of the Dead: The World’s Most Beautiful Cemeteries,” written by Yolanda Zappaterra and published by Frances Lincoln Publishing, showcases unique graveyards that defy expectations. From an Australian memorial site overlooking the Tasman Sea to a vibrant plant-filled cemetery in Georgia, USA, and a striking Victorian burial ground in Bristol, this book explores the diverse beauty of cemeteries.
In the introduction, Zappaterra writes, “Some of these cemeteries have been chosen for their physical attractiveness, while others mark significant historical and cultural periods, house famous individuals, or simply offer an appealing location for burial.” She continues by stating that cemeteries, much like our cities, are an insight into humanity’s nature. They display our potential for greatness through intelligence, achievements, generosity, creativity, and imagination, while also exposing our weaknesses such as bloodlust, war, famine, greed, and brutality.
The publisher further emphasizes that alongside evocative images, this book brings these notable burial sites to life by sharing the stories behind them. It highlights the similarities and differences across various time periods, religions, and cultures. It showcases how cemeteries are not only about the deceased but also about the living, making them vital spaces. Scroll down to discover ten burial sites featured in the book, and experience, explore, and respect them to ensure their continued significance in our world.
CEMITERIO SAO JOAO BATISTA, BOTAFOGO, RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL: This vast necropolis, opened in 1852, is situated between the Christ the Redeemer statue and the lively Copacabana beach. Over 25,000 tombs house an estimated 70,000 remains, commemorating Brazil’s contributors across various fields. Renowned figures buried here include Fifa president Joao Havelange and singer Carmen Miranda.
GLASGOW NECROPOLIS, GLASGOW, SCOTLAND: Described as a calm and enchanted place, this graveyard established in 1831 offers a serene ambiance. It’s often deserted, except for colonies of pipistrelle bats. Its eerie atmosphere has caught the attention of filmmakers, as it features in the upcoming Batman movie. Notable interments include William Miller, the poet behind the nursery rhyme ‘Wee Willie Winkie’.
HIGHGATE CEMETERY, LONDON, ENGLAND: Established in 1839, this cemetery is divided into East and West sections. Its meandering paths through the dense woodland make for delightful exploration, but finding specific graves can be challenging. The cemetery boasts fascinating stories, such as that of Robert Liston, known as the fastest surgeon in the West End. The tomb of Alexander Litvinenko, the former Russian spy, is also a prominent feature, alongside the burial of singer George Michael.
SOUTH PARK STREET CEMETERY, KOLKATA, INDIA: Created in 1767 by the East India Company to accommodate the increasing number of European deaths in the city, this cemetery represents a diverse range of professions. It reveals a rich history of people succumbing to tropical diseases and inadequate healthcare. While the author warns of the presence of snakes, the well-kept walkways offer a glimpse into this lovely necropolis.
SKOGSKYRKOGARDEN WOODLAND CEMETERY, STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN: Laid out in 1920, this cemetery stands out with its 10,000 towering pine trees. The architects prioritized the experience of mourning in their design. Benches were angled towards each other to alleviate the feeling of loneliness, and the staircase leading to the hilltop meditation grove was designed to induce calm and contemplation. Notable graves include that of actress Greta Garbo.
GLENDALOUGH GRAVEYARD, CO. WICKLOW, IRELAND: Visiting this graveyard is like traveling back in time. Surrounded by the beautiful Wicklow Mountains, it features a 7th-century monastic settlement and spans nine centuries with over 2,000 gravestones. Notable highlights include a towering 108-foot round tower built by monks and the preposterously pretty St Kevin’s Church.
PERE LACHAISE, PARIS, FRANCE: Established in 1804, Pere Lachaise transformed cemetery design by replacing unsanitary inner-city burial grounds with expansive landscapes. It has become the world’s most visited cemetery, attracting over three million visitors annually. Pere Lachaise houses the remains of renowned cultural icons, including Maria Callas, Jim Morrison, Edith Piaf, Oscar Wilde, Proust, and Chopin.
THE WAVERLEY CEMETERY, SYDNEY, NEW SOUTH WALES, AUSTRALIA: Perched high on the Bronte cliffs, this picturesque graveyard offers a breathtaking view of the Tasman Sea. Established in 1875, it was designed as a garden-like space for visitors to enjoy. Prominent figures buried here include poet Henry Kendall and Olympic gold medalist swimmer Sarah Frances ‘Fanny’ Durack.
BONAVENTURE CEMETERY, SAVANNAH, GEORGIA, USA: Established in 1846, this cemetery is teeming with life, adorned with lush, vibrant growth. From colorful roses and azaleas to swaying palmetto leaves and centuries-old live oaks, its scenery captivates. Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Conrad Aiken, known for his love of martinis, occupies a gravesite marked by a bench.
ARNOS VALE CEMETERY, BRISTOL, ENGLAND: Created in 1837, this cemetery enticed the wealthy away from overcrowded churchyards, offering a garden-like space. With over 50,000 graves, it acts as a place for the living as well. It hosts educational tours, features a cafe serving excellent coffee and cake, and serves as a venue for plays, concerts, and wedding ceremonies.
Immerse yourself in the beauty and history of these remarkable cemeteries, and let them reveal the depth of their significance as both memorials to the dead and spaces for the living.
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